Stable Formulation for Parenteral Administration of Tapentadol

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to an aqueous pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration comprising Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of from 0.10 to 8.00 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition; and wherein the pH value of the composition is buffered and within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0. The invention also relates to a container comprising the pharmaceutical composition and a process for the preparation thereof. The invention also relates to a kit comprising the contained according to the invention in a packaging. The pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is particularly useful for treating pain, especially acute pain, preferably in pediatric patients.

The invention relates to an aqueous pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration comprising Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of from 0.10 to 8.00 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition; and wherein the pH value of the composition is buffered and within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0. The invention also relates to a container comprising the pharmaceutical composition and a process for the preparation thereof. The invention also relates to a kit comprising the contained according to the invention in a packaging. The pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is particularly useful for treating pain, especially acute pain, preferably in pediatric patients.

Various formulations for parenteral administration are known from the prior art.

WO 01/22998 discloses a therapeutic calcitriol solution which is suitable for packaging into pharmaceutical vials without producing discoloration of the antioxidant component of the solution.

WO 01/93830 relates to a method for obtaining aqueous formulations with easily oxidizable active principles, notably phenols, stable over prolonged period, which consists of subjecting them to extreme deoxygenation by bubbling with an inert gas and/or placing under vacuum, protecting them against possible resorption of oxygen by keeping them under an inert gas atmosphere by filling, under inert gas, into bottles previously cleared of air by insufflation with inert gas, then subjecting them, whilst stoppering, to low pressure as obtained in the bottle, of 65,000 Pa maximum, and thus obtaining aqueous solutions having a residual oxygen concentration in the solution below 2 ppm, and preferably of the order of 1 ppm and even 0.5 ppm.

WO 02/072080 relates to parenterally administrable, especially infusible, aqueous paracetamol solutions which are stable in storage and free of particles and discoloration. Said solutions contain a mixture of: a) between 1 and 17 grams of paracetamol per liter, and b) between 0.01 and 0.17 grams of at least one physiologically compatible antioxidant per liter, selected from the group comprising ascorbic acid, N-acetyl-L-cysteine and stabilizer compounds containing SH groups which are different from N-acetyl-L-cysteine. The aqueous solution is free of organic solvents and has a pH value of between 5.5 and 6.5 and an oxygen content of less than 0.5 milligrams per liter.

WO 03/041687 a method for producing stabilized antioxidant-free solutions based on phenolic substances which consists in: deoxygenation of the solutions with an inert gas, and in deoxygenation of gas holdups of the vessels, of the manufacturing pipes and inerting of ampoules and flasks containing the solute with a dense inert rare gas such as argon, at low temperature and with pH adjusted above 3.0 and below 5.0 to obtain stable solutions of phenolic substances containing not more than 0.02 ppm of oxygen in the solution, which is filtered by double sterilizing filtration.

WO 2004/062689 discloses stabilized aqueous compositions of tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) or TFPI variants that comprise a solubilizing agent, an antioxidant, and a buffer. The combination of a solubilizing agent and an antioxidant can lead to a significant improvement in the storage life of TFPI or TFPI variant compositions. The solubilizing agent and antioxidant substantially counteract the effects of TFPI or TFPI variant degradation through aggregation and oxidation.

WO 2008/135601 relates to a liquid formulation, stable to oxidation, based on a phenolic active principle susceptible to oxidation such as paracetamol in an aqueous solvent and to a method for preparing such formulation. The formulation and the method are characterized in that the active principle is admixed in the aqueous solvent having a temperature between 60° C. and 105° C., a pH between 5.0 and 6.0 and an oxygen concentration below 0.0002%.

WO 2009/124586 concerns a stable aqueous pharmaceutical composition comprising 5-[(2RS)-2-cyclopropyl-7,8-dimethoxy-2H-1-benzopyran-5-ylmethyl]-pyrimidine-2,4-diamine in form of the water soluble methanesulfonic acid salt, a physiological sodium chloride solution, ethanol and Povidone 12 PF, the liquid having a pH of over and above 4.8, but not higher than 5.2, and wherein the oxygen amount is controlled to be 0.8 ppm or less; which can be sterilized by filtration and/or by heated treatment, stored for longer time periods and which can be used for bolus injection or diluted for i.v. infusion.

WO 2011/071400 relates to stable liquid formulations of paracetamol for pharmaceutical use and to a method of preparation of stable paracetamol solutions.

WO 2013/144814 discloses a stable ready-to-use pharmaceutical composition comprising pemetrexed or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein the composition is free from antioxidants, amino acids and chelating agents. Also provided is a process for preparing a stable ready-to-use pharmaceutical composition comprising the steps: i) purging inert gas into a parenterally acceptable aqueous solvent until the dissolved oxygen content of the solvent comes to less than 7 mg/L, preferably less than 3 mg/L; ii) adding pemetrexed disodium under stirring; iii) adjusting the pH of the resulting solution to between 4 to 9; iv) optionally adding additional aqueous solvent; wherein the composition is purged with inert gas throughout the entire process.

Pharmaceutical dosage forms of Tapentadol are also known from the prior art, e.g., WO 02/67651, WO 03/035053, WO 2006/002886, WO 2007/128412, WO 2007/128413, WO 2008/110323, WO 2009/067703, WO 2009/092601, US 2010/272815, and T. M. Tzschentke et al., Drugs of the future, 31(12), 2006, 1053-1061.

WO 2012/119727 relates to an aqueous pharmaceutical composition containing tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof and being adapted for oral administration. The composition has excellent storage stability without relying on the presence of high amounts of preservatives.

WO 2012/119728 discloses parenteral formulations for the administration of Tapentadol. The concentration of Tapentadol in these formulations is preferably below 100 mg/mL. The concentration of Tapentadol in the exemplified formulations according to WO 2012/119728 is 15 mg/mL and 20 mg/mL, respectively. According to WO 2012/119728 Tapentadol exhibits antimicrobial properties. These antimicrobial properties are more pronounced at higher pH values. In consequence, preservatives may be omitted or their content in the formulations may at least be decreased. The complete absence of preservatives is preferred when the content of Tapentadol is sufficiently high so that due to its preserving property the desired shelf life or in use stability can be achieved by the presence of Tapentadol itself. For that purpose, the concentration of Tapentadol is preferably at least 10 mg/mL, based on the total volume of the composition.

It has been found, however, that in diluted solutions the dissolved Tapentadol tends to decomposition having a negative impact on storage stability of parenteral formulations at such low concentrations of Tapentadol.

It is an object of the invention to provide parenteral formulations of Tapentadol that have advantages compared to the parenteral formulations of Tapentadol of the prior art. The parenteral formulations should contain Tapentadol or physiologically acceptable salts thereof at comparatively low concentrations but at the same time should have a good storage stability and shelf life.

This object has been achieved by the subject-matter of the patent claims.

It has been surprisingly found that in diluted solutions at pH values in the range of 6 to 7.5 the otherwise chemically very stable pharmacologically active ingredient Tapentadol is subject to inacceptable chemical degradation. The inventors have unexpectedly found that chemical stability can be substantially improved by lowering the pH value and by increasing the buffer capacity in order to provide an adjusted and robustly maintained pH value. While conventional diluted solutions of Tapentadol are instable and show a successive increase of the pH value after autoclaving and long-term storage, the pH value of the composition according to the invention remains substantially unchanged.

Therefore, it has been surprisingly found that at comparative low concentrations of Tapentadol below 8.0 mg/mL, especially below 5.0 mg/mL, particularly at concentrations of about 1.0 mg/mL, lowering the pH value of the pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration has a stabilizing effect so that decomposition (degradation) of Tapentadol can be significantly reduced or even suppressed, also under stress conditions after repeated autoclaving. Thus, it appears that under certain conditions antimicrobial effect of Tapentadol on the one hand (cf. WO 2012/119728) and chemical stability of Tapentadol on the other hand are both function of the pH value but in opposite directions.

Further, it has been surprisingly found that even at pH values of the composition within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0 and even at such comparative low concentrations of Tapentadol, stable pharmaceutical compositions for parenteral administration can be provided that need neither a preservative nor an antioxidant and are nevertheless storage stable for a long period of time. This is particularly surprising, as the antimicrobial effect of Tapentadol itself is a function of its concentration and of the pH value such that the antimicrobial effect of Tapentadol should principally decrease when its concentration and the pH value are comparatively low.

Still further, it has been surprisingly found that the composition remains chemically stable under the harsh conditions of autoclaving, e.g. for at least 20 min at 2 bar and 121° C. Thus, the storage stability of the composition according to the invention does not need to rely on the antimicrobial effect of Tapentadol alone. Autoclaving achieves sufficient storage stability against antimicrobial decontamination without the need for preservatives.

Furthermore, it has been surprisingly found that Tapentadol may be sufficiently stabilized against chemical decomposition by degassing and providing the composition under an inert gas atmosphere, respectively, e.g. by means of degassing with nitrogen purge. The use of antioxidants can thus be avoided.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a stable aqueous pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration comprising Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of from 0.10 to 8.00 mg/mL, preferably within the range of from 0.10 to 5.00 mg/mL, more preferably within the range of from 0.50 to 1.50 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition; wherein the pH value of the composition is buffered, preferably by a citrate buffer, and wherein the pH value is within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0, preferably within the range of from 4.5 to 5.5, in particular before and after autoclaving. Thus, preferably the composition according to the invention has undergone autoclaving, preferably at least for at least 20 minutes at least at 2 bar and at least at 121° C., and the pH value before autoclaving as well as the pH value after autoclaving is independently within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0, preferably within the range of from 4.5 to 5.5.

The term “pharmaceutical composition” includes any pharmaceutical preparation or formulation that is customized for being administered to a human being or animal. Preferably, the composition is an aqueous solution.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, all percentages are weight percent, relative to the total weight of the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, all values in mL refer to the total volume of the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, parameters and conditions (such as temperature, pressure, relative humidity, volume, weight, concentration, pH value, titration acidity, buffer capacity, osmolarity, content of molecular oxygen, storage stability, color, and the like) are determined and measured in accordance with the requirements and recommendations as set forth in the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.). Unless expressly stated otherwise, all references to Ph. Eur. refer to the version that is officially valid in March 2015. General conditions are typically ambient conditions.

For the purpose of the specification, the term “Tapentadol” includes the free base ((1R,2R)-3-(3-dimethylamino-1-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl)-phenol) as well as any physiologically acceptable salt thereof, particularly the hydrochloride ((1R,2R)-3-(3-dimethylamino-1-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl)-phenol hydrochloride).

Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, the term “Tapentadol” does not only refer to the free base but also to any physiologically acceptable salt. Further, unless expressly stated otherwise, all amounts, contents and concentrations are equivalents related to Tapentadol free base.

Preferably, Tapentadol is present in the composition according to the invention as Tapentadol hydrochloride. In a preferred embodiment, Tapentadol is present as solubilized Tapentadol hydrochloride salt form A. Form A of Tapentadol hydrochloride is known from the prior art. In this regard, it can be referred to e.g. US 2007/0213405. Preferably, form A is characterized by showing at least one or more X-ray lines (2-theta values) in a powder diffraction pattern when measured using Cu Kα radiation selected from the list comprising 15.1±0.2, 16.0±0.2, 18.9±0.2, 20.4±0.2, 22.5±0.2, 27.3±0.2, 29.3±0.2 and 30.4±0.2

The concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of from 0.10 to 8.00 mg/mL, preferably within the range of from 0.10 to 5.00 mg/mL, more preferably within the range of from 0.50 to 1.50 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition. In preferred embodiments, said concentration is within the range of 1.0±0.8 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.7 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.6 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.5 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.4 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.3 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.2 mg/mL, or 1.0±0.1 mg/mL.

The composition according to the invention is aqueous, i.e. the composition comprises water which is typically water for injection purposes, i.e. highly pure and sterile water.

Preferably, the water content is at least 50 wt.-%, more preferably at least 60 wt.-%, still more preferably at least 70 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 80 wt.-%, most preferably at least 85 wt.-% and in particular at least 90 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, the water content is at least 95 wt.-%, more preferably at least 96 wt.-%, still more preferably at least 97 wt.-%, yet more preferably at least 98 wt.-%, most preferably at least 99 wt.-% and in particular at least 99.5 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the water content is within the range of from 99.020±0.970 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.900 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.800 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.700 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.600 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.500 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.400 wt.-%, or 99.020±0.300 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the composition.

Besides water, the composition according to the invention may contain further solvents.

Further suitable solvents include all types of physiologically acceptable hydrophilic solvents, preferably selected from the group consisting of ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and macrogol 300.

Preferably, however, the composition according to the invention does not contain further solvents besides water.

The pH value of the composition according to the invention is buffered, i.e. the composition comprises a buffer (i.e. a pair of conjugate acid and conjugate base).

Preferred buffers are derived from the following acids: organic acids such as acetic acid, propionic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, lactic acid, malonic acid, malic acid, mandelic acid, citric acid, tartric acid, succinic acid; or inorganic acids such as phosphoric acid. When the buffer is derived from any of the above acids, the buffer constitutes of said acid and its conjugate base(s). Buffers derived from acetic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, succinic acid or phosphoric acid are particularly preferred.

A skilled person is fully aware that multiprotonic acids can form more than a single pair of a conjugate acid and a conjugate base. For example, citric acid is a triprotonic acid so that it forms the following pairs of conjugate acid and conjugate base: (i) citric acid-dihydrogencitrate, (ii) dihydrogencitrate-hydrogencitrate, (iii) and hydrogencitrate-citrate. In other words, any of citric acid, dihydrogencitrate and hydrogencitrate can be the acid of a buffer with the conjugate base. A skilled person is also fully aware that the conjugate acids and conjugate bases are in equilibrium with one another and that the predominant species that are present in a mixture of citrate, hydrogencitrate, dihydrogencitrate and citric acid can be determined on the basis of the pK_(A) values and the pH value of the composition.

For the purpose of the specification, the expression “buffer” refers to the total quantity of conjugate acids and conjugate bases. For example, when the buffer is derived from citric acid, i.e. is a citrate buffer, the expression “buffer” refers to the total quantity of citrate, hydrogencitrate, dihydrogencitrate and citric acid.

Further, a skilled person is fully aware that a buffer, e.g. citric acid as conjugate acid and sodium dihydrogencitrate as conjugate base, can be established either by adding citric acid and an appropriate amount of sodium hydroxide, or sodium citrate and an appropriate amount of hydrochloric acid, or citric acid and sodium dihydrogencitrate as such. Unless expressly stated otherwise, “sodium citrate” is synonymous to “trisodium citrate”. Sodium citrate dihydrate (=trisodium citrate dihydrate) thus has the linear formula HOC(COONa)(CH₂COONa)₂.2H₂O and a relative molecular weight of 294.10 g/mol.

Accordingly, in case that the composition contains an appropriate amount of Tapentadol in form of its hydrochloride, a buffer can be established by adding sodium citrate, e.g. in form of sodium citrate dihydrate. Nevertheless, Tapentadol and its physiologically acceptable salts are not to be considered as conjugate acid or conjugate base of the buffer.

Preferably, the concentration of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is adjusted to provide a sufficient buffer capacity.

It has been surprisingly found that by adjusting the content of buffer in the pharmaceutical composition, the shelf life can be substantially improved, particularly the chemical stability of Tapentadol in the composition at its comparatively low concentrations, particularly also under conditions of autoclaving. It has been found that an optimal buffer concentration can be found that on the one hand provides sufficient stability of the composition, but that on the other had does not entrain significant amounts of material into the organism to be treated and does not significantly change the pH value of the body fluids of the organism to be treated.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids selected from the group consisting of citrate, hydrogencitrate, dihydrogencitrate and citric acid.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of at least 0.015 wt.-%, more preferably at least 0.020 wt.-%, still more preferably at least 0.025 wt.-%, and most preferably at least 0.030 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of not more than 0.055 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.050 wt.-%, still more preferably not more than 0.045 wt.-%, yet more preferably not more than 0.040 wt.-%, and most preferably not more than 0.035 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration within the range of from 0.015 to 0.055 wt.-%, more preferably within the range of from 0.020 to 0.050 wt.-%, still more preferably within the range of from 0.025 to 0.045 wt.-%, most preferably within the range of from 0.030 to 0.045 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In a preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.020±0.018 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.016 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.014 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.012 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.010 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.008 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.006 wt.-%, or 0.020±0.004 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In another preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.030±0.018 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.016 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.014 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.012 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.010 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.008 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.006 wt.-%, or 0.030±0.004 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In still another preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.040±0.035 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.030 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.025 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.020 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.015 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.010 wt.-%, or 0.040±0.005 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.060±0.035 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.030 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.025 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.020 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.015 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.010 wt.-%, or 0.060±0.005 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In still another preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.080±0.035 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.030 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.025 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.020 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.015 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.010 wt.-%, or 0.080±0.005 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the content of the buffer, preferably sodium citrate or its dihydrate, is within the range of from 0.032±0.030 wt.-%, 0.032±0.026 wt.-%, 0.032±0.024 wt.-%, 0.032±0.020 wt.-%, 0.032±0.016 wt.-%, 0.032±0.012 wt.-%, 0.032±0.008 wt.-%, 0.032±0.004 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total weight of the composition.

When the buffer is neither sodium citrate nor its dihydrate, but a different buffer, the content of said different buffer preferably amounts to an equivalent content that is necessary to achieve the same buffer capacity at the given pH value as if the buffer would be sodium citrate or its dihydrate in the above content in wt.-%.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of at least 0.5 mmol/L, more preferably at least 0.6 mmol/L, still more preferably at least 0.7 mmol/L, yet more preferably at least 0.8 mmol/L, and most preferably at least 0.9 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of not more than 1.5 mmol/L, more preferably not more than 1.4 mmol/L, still more preferably not more than 1.3 mmol/L, and most preferably not more than 1.2 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration within the range of from 0.5 to 1.5 mmol/L, more preferably within the range of from 0.6 to 1.4 mmol/L, still more preferably within the range of from 0.7 to 1.3 mmol/L, and most preferably within the range of from 0.8 to 1.2 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition

The buffered pH value of the composition according to the invention is within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0, preferably within the range of from 4.5 to 5.5.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition has a buffered pH value within the range of 4.5±0.5, more preferably 4.5±0.4, still more preferably 4.5±0.3, yet more preferably 4.5±0.2, and in particular 4.5±0.1.

In another preferred embodiment, the composition has a buffered pH value within the range of 5.0±1.0, more preferably 5.0±0.9, still more preferably 5.0±0.8, yet more preferably 5.0±0.7, even more preferably 5.0±0.6 or 5.0±0.5, most preferably 5.0±0.4 or 5.0±0.3, and in particular 5.0±0.2 or 5.0±0.1.

In still another preferred embodiment, the composition has a buffered pH value within the range of 5.5±0.5, more preferably 5.5±0.4, still more preferably 5.5±0.3, yet more preferably 5.5±0.2, and in particular 5.5±0.1.

Preferably, the content of molecular oxygen of the composition, i.e. the content of dissolved molecular oxygen, is not more than 9.0 mg/L, more preferably not more than 7.0 mg/L, still more preferably not more than 5.0 mg/L, yet more preferably not more than 3.0 mg/L, and most preferably not more than 1.0 mg/L, based on the total volume of the composition.

Preferably, the content of molecular oxygen in the composition is not more than 0.2 mg/L, more preferably 0.1 mg/L, still more preferably 0.05 mg/L, based on the total volume of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the content of molecular oxygen in the composition is not more than 0.20 mg/L, or 0.18 mg/L, or 0.16 mg/L, or 0.14 mg/L, or 0.12 mg/L, or 0.10 mg/L, or 0.09 mg/L, or 0.08 mg/L, or 0.07 mg/L, or 0.006 mg/L, or 0.05 mg/L, or 0.04 mg/L, or 0.03 mg/L, or 0.02 mg/L.

In preferred embodiments, the content of molecular oxygen in the composition is not more than 0.048 mg/L, or 0.046 mg/L, or 0.044 mg/L, or 0.042 mg/L, or 0.040 mg/L, or 0.038 mg/L, or 0.036 mg/L, or 0.034 mg/L, or 0.032 mg/L, or 0.030 mg/L, or 0.028 mg/L, or 0.026 mg/L, or 0.024 mg/L, or 0.022 mg/L, or 0.020 mg/L, or 0.018 mg/L, or 0.016 mg/L, or 0.014 mg/L, or 0.012 mg/L, or 0.010 mg/L.

The composition according to the invention is preferably packaged in containers, e.g. in glass ampoules. The inner space of the container typically comprises at least two phases, namely a liquid phase and a gaseous phase (headspace). As far as the content of molecular oxygen is concerned, the oxygen content in the liquid phase and the oxygen content in the headspace are typically equilibrated. Thus, measuring the content of molecular oxygen in the gaseous phase of the headspace allows drawing conclusions also concerning the content of dissolved molecular oxygen of the liquid phase, i.e. the aqueous composition as such.

In preferred embodiments—when filling 2.0 ml of the composition into a closed glass ampoule having an inner volume of 3.0 ml and containing pure nitrogen gas such that the filled ampoule comprises the composition as a liquid phase and a gaseous phase in a headspace above the liquid phase, and allowing the gas dissolved in the liquid phase and the gas in the gaseous phase to equilibrate—the gaseous phase has a content of molecular oxygen of not more than 2.5% Vbar, more preferably not more than 2.4% Vbar, still more preferably not more than 2.3% Vbar, yet more preferably not more than 2.2% Vbar, even more preferably not more than 2.1% Vbar, and most preferably not more than 2.0% Vbar. In preferred embodiments, under the given conditions, the gaseous phase has preferably a content of molecular oxygen of not more than 1.8% Vbar, more preferably not more than 1.6% Vbar, still more preferably not more than 1.4% Vbar, yet more preferably not more than 1.2% Vbar, even more preferably not more than 1.0% Vbar, and most preferably not more than 0.8% Vbar.

Suitable methods for adjusting and determining the oxygen content of aqueous pharmaceutical compositions are known to the skilled person and suitable measuring devices are commercially available. The oxygen content can be reduced by purging the composition with an inert gas such as nitrogen and/or by subjecting the composition to reduced pressure and/or by purging the headspace of the composition with an inert gas such as nitrogen. Preferably, the oxygen content in the headspace is determined by means of an electrochemical oxygen sensor, e.g. a Head Space Analyzer Orbisphere 510, Hach Lange.

It has been surprisingly found that by reducing the oxygen content of the pharmaceutical composition, the shelf life can be substantially improved, particularly the chemical stability of Tapentadol in the composition at its comparatively low concentrations.

The osmolarity of the composition depends on the content of its constituents and is preferably adjusted during the manufacture of the composition by the addition of an appropriate amount of an isotonizing agent, preferably sodium chloride. Other isotonizing agents such as mannitol or sorbitol can also be added alternatively or additionally. Ionic isotonizing agents are preferred.

Thus, preferably the composition according to the invention comprises an isotonizing agent, more preferably sodium chloride.

Preferably, the content of the sodium chloride is not more than 1.0 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.8 wt.-%, still more preferably not more than 0.6 wt.-%, yet more preferably not more than 0.4 wt.-%, most preferably not more than 0.2 wt.-%, and in particular not more than 0.1 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the composition.

In preferred embodiments, the content of the sodium chloride is within the range of from 0.848±0.800 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.700 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.600 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.500 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.400 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.300 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.200 wt.-%, or 0.848±0.100 wt.-%, based on the total weight of the composition.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention does not contain any preservative. For the purpose of the specification, a “preservative” preferably refers to any substance that is usually added to pharmaceutical compositions in order to preserve them against microbial degradation or microbial growth. In this regard, microbial growth typically plays an essential role, i.e. the preservative serves the main purpose of avoiding microbial contamination. As a side aspect, it may also be desirable to avoid any effect of the microbes on the active ingredients and excipients, respectively, i.e. to avoid microbial degradation.

Representative examples of preservatives include benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, benzyl alcohol, bronopol, cetrimide, cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, chlorbutanol, chlorocresol, chloroxylenol, cresol, ethyl alcohol, glycerin, hexetidine, imidurea, phenol, phenoxyethanol, phenylethyl alcohol, phenylmercuric nitrate, propylene glycol, sodium propionate, thimerosal, methyl paraben, ethyl paraben, propyl paraben, butyl paraben, isobutyl paraben, benzyl paraben, sorbic acid, and potassium sorbate.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention does not contain any chelating agents such as EDTA or its sodium or calcium salts. However, the composition according to the invention may contain a citrate buffer and under these circumstances, citric acid and its salts are to be considered as a buffer and not as a chelating agent, though it is known that citric acid and its salt also have a certain degree of chelating capacity.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention does not contain any antioxidants. Examples of antioxidants that are preferably not contained in the composition according to the invention include but are not limited to

-   -   propyl, octyl and dodecylesters of gallic acid,     -   butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT),     -   ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate,     -   monothioglycerol,     -   potassium or sodium metabisulfite,     -   propionic acid,     -   propyl gallate,     -   sodium bisulfite, sodium sulfite, and     -   the tocopherols or vitamin E.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention contains neither any preservative nor any antioxidant.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention essentially consists of Tapentadol, buffer, isotonizing agent and water.

Particularly preferred embodiments A¹ to A⁸ of the composition according to the invention are summarized in the table here below:

A¹ A² A³ A⁴ Tapentadol [mg/mL] 1.0 ± 0.8 1.0 ± 0.7 1.0 ± 0.6 1.0 ± 0.5 buffer [wt.-%] 0.032 ± 0.030 0.032 ± 0.026 0.032 ± 0.024 0.032 ± 0.020 sodium chloride [wt.-%] 0.848 ± 0.800 0.848 ± 0.700 0.848 ± 0.600 0.848 ± 0.500 water [wt.-%] 99.020 ± 0.970  99.020 ± 0.900  99.020 ± 0.800  99.020 ± 0.700  oxygen headspace [% Vbar] ≦2.5% ≦2.4% ≦2.3% ≦2.2% pH value 5.0 ± 1.0 5.0 ± 0.9 5.0 ± 0.8 5.0 ± 0.7 A⁵ A⁶ A⁷ A⁸ Tapentadol [mg/mL] 1.0 ± 0.4 1.0 ± 0.3 1.0 ± 0.2 1.0 ± 0.1 buffer [wt.-%] 0.032 ± 0.016 0.032 ± 0.012 0.032 ± 0.008 0.032 ± 0.004 sodium chloride [wt.-%] 0.848 ± 0.400 0.848 ± 0.300 0.848 ± 0.200 0.848 ± 0.100 water [wt.-%] 99.020 ± 0.600  99.020 ± 0.500  99.020 ± 0.400  99.020 ± 0.300  oxygen headspace [% Vbar] ≦2.1% ≦2.1% ≦2.0% ≦2.0% pH value 5.0 ± 0.6 5.0 ± 0.6 5.0 ± 0.5 5.0 ± 0.5

Preferably, the composition according to the invention has a titration acidity of not more than 1.8 mmol/L, more preferably not more than 1.7 mmol/L, still more preferably not more than 1.6 mmol/L, yet more preferably not more than 1.5 mmol/L, and most preferably not more than 1.4 mmol/L.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention has a titration acidity within the range of from 1.0 to 1.8 mmol/L, more preferably 1.4 to 1.8 mmol/L. Especially in pediatric patients titration acidity is an important parameter in view of the lower blood volume.

Preferably, titration acidity is determined at a CO₂ partial pressure of 0 mm Hg under Argon at 37° C. When titrating the composition according to the invention under these conditions with 0.01 M NaOH up to an endpoint of pH 7.4.

In a preferred embodiment, particularly when the composition has a pH value within the range of 5.0±0.5, the titration acidity is preferably within the range of 1.20±0.20 mmol/L, more preferably 1.20±0.10 mmol/L.

In another preferred embodiment, particularly when the composition has a pH value within the range of 4.5±0.5, the titration acidity is preferably within the range of 1.60±0.20 mmol/L, more preferably 1.60±0.10 mmol/L.

In order to satisfy high quality requirements for infusion and injection solutions, respectively, the composition has to exhibit a physiologically acceptable osmolarity and a physiologically acceptable pH.

Isotonic sodium chloride solution (saline), for instance, contains 0.9 wt.-% of sodium chloride and exhibits an osmolarity of 0.308 osmol/L, which is close to the osmolarity of blood.

Preferably, the composition has an osmolarity of at least 0.20 or at least 0.22 osmol/L, more preferably of at least 0.23 osmol/L, still more preferably of at least 0.24 osmol/L, yet more preferably of at least 0.25 osmol/L, most preferably of at least 0.26 osmol/L, and in particular of at least 0.27 osmol/L.

Preferably, the composition has an osmolarity of not more than 0.36 osmol/L, more preferably of not more than 0.34 osmol/L, still more preferably of not more than 0.32 osmol/L, yet more preferably of not more than 0.31 osmol/L, most preferably of not more than 0.30 osmol/L and in particular of not more than 0.29 osmol/L.

In preferred embodiments, the composition has an osmolarity of 0.28±0.08 osmol/L, more preferably of 0.28±0.06 osmol/L, still more preferably of 0.28±0.04 osmol/L, yet more preferably of 0.28±0.03 osmol/L, most preferably of 0.28±0.02 osmol/L, and in particular of 0.28±0.01 osmol/L.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a container comprising the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention, wherein the container is preferably a closed and airtight container. All preferred embodiments that have been defined above in connection with the composition according to the invention analogously also apply to the container according to the invention.

The container according to the invention comprises a distinct volume of the composition according to the invention that is adapted for parenteral administration to the patient. As the aqueous composition according to the invention is typically liquid, it is preferably provided in a container. Prior to parenteral administration, the composition according to the invention is then removed, completely (single dosage) or partially (multiple dosage) from the container.

Preferably, the container is a glass ampoule. Preferably, the container is made from glass of quality type I that satisfies the requirements of Ph. Eur. for parenteral formulations.

Preferably, the container comprises the composition as a liquid phase and a gaseous phase in a headspace above the liquid phase, wherein the gaseous phase has a content of molecular oxygen of not more than 2.5% Vbar, more preferably not more than 2.4% Vbar, still more preferably not more than 2.3% Vbar, yet more preferably not more than 2.2% Vbar, even more preferably not more than 2.1% Vbar, and most preferably not more than 2.0% Vbar. In preferred embodiments, under the given conditions, the gaseous phase has preferably a content of molecular oxygen of not more than 1.8% Vbar, more preferably not more than 1.6% Vbar, still more preferably not more than 1.4% Vbar, yet more preferably not more than 1.2% Vbar, even more preferably not more than 1.0% Vbar, and most preferably not more than 0.8% Vbar.

The container according to the invention may comprise a single dose of Tapentadol or may be multiple dosed. For the purpose of the specification “multiple dosed” preferably means that the container encompasses more than a single dosage unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the container contains the composition according to the invention in a quantity exceeding a single administration dose (dosage unit). Under these circumstances, the container comprises multiple dosage units, i.e. is customized for more than a single administration, preferably by injection.

For example, when the container comprises a multiple dosed injection solution, its overall volume is more than the volume that is to be typically administered at once. Instead, the multiple dosed injection solution is customized for being divided into a multitude of dosage units that are to be administered over a treatment interval typically encompassing several days. The individual dosage units may preferably be separated from the multiple dosage unit by means of a syringe. A typical example for a container according to the invention that comprises multiple dosage units is a preferably sterilized glass container sealed with a septum. Said glass container contains a volume of the pharmaceutical composition well exceeding the individual volume of an individual dosage unit that is intended for at once administration to the patient. For example, when the container has a total volume of 250 mL and the prescribed dosage unit is 25 mL once daily, at day 1 of the treatment interval the patient takes 25 mL so that 225 mL remain in the container; at day 2 of the treatment interval the patient takes another 25 mL so that 200 mL remain in the container; and so on, until at day 10 the entire amount is taken by the patient.

Preferably, the container contains at least 2, more preferably at least 3, even more preferably at least 5, yet more preferably at least 10, most preferably at least 12, and in particular at least 15 individual dosage units.

In another preferred embodiment, the container comprises a single dosage unit, i.e. only one individual dosage unit. Under these circumstances, the container preferably comprises from 1.0 to 3.0 mL of the composition.

Preferably, the individual dosage units have a volume of 0.25 mL to 3.0 mL, more preferably of 0.5 mL to 2.75 mL, still more preferably of 0.75 mL to 2.5 mL, and most preferably of 1.0 mL to 2.0 mL.

In a preferred embodiment, the individual dosage units have a volume of 1.0±0.9 mL, more preferably of 1.0±0.75 mL, still more preferably 1.0±0.5 mL, yet more preferably of 1.0±0.4 mL, even more preferably of 1.0±0.2 mL, most preferably of 1.0±0.15 mL, and in particular of 1.0±0.1 mL.

In another preferred embodiment, the individual dosage units have a volume of 2.0±0.9 mL, more preferably of 2.0±0.75 mL, still more preferably 2.0±0.5 mL, yet more preferably of 2.0±0.4 mL, even more preferably of 2.0±0.2 mL, most preferably of 2.0±0.15 mL, and in particular of 2.0±0.1 mL.

In still another preferred embodiment, the individual dosage units have a volume of 3.0±0.9 mL, more preferably of 3.0±0.75 mL, still more preferably 3.0±0.5 mL, yet more preferably of 3.0±0.4 mL, even more preferably of 3.0±0.2 mL, most preferably of 3.0±0.15 mL, and in particular of 3.0±0.1 mL.

The one or more individual dosage units that are contained in the container may be customized for administration once, twice, thrice, four times, five times, six times or even more frequently, optionally in regular time intervals.

The composition that is contained in the container may also be customized for a continual administration, preferably by infusion. Preferably, the composition that is contained in the container is adapted for a continual administration for at least 30 minutes or 45 minutes, more preferably for at least 1 h or 2 h, still more preferably for at least 3 h or 4 h, yet more preferably for at least 6 h or 8 h, most preferably for at least 10 h, and in particular for at least 12 h.

Tapentadol is administered in a therapeutically effective amount. The amount that constitutes a therapeutically effective amount varies according to the condition being treated, the severity of said condition and the patient being treated.

Preferably, the amount of Tapentadol that is contained in the individual dosage unit is preferably within the range of from 0.2 to 0.6 mg/kg body weight.

In a preferred embodiment, the amount of Tapentadol that is contained in the individual dosage unit is preferably within the range of from 10 mg to 250 mg, more preferably within the range of from 15 mg to 200 mg, still more preferably within the range of from 20 mg to 150 mg, yet more preferably within the range of from 30 mg to 130 mg, and most preferably within the range of from 40 mg to 115 mg, and in particular within the range of from 50 mg to 100 mg.

In another preferred embodiment, the amount of Tapentadol that is contained in the individual dosage unit is preferably within the range of from 0.1 mg to 60 mg, more preferably within the range of from 0.1 mg to 55 mg, still more preferably within the range of from 0.2 mg to 50 mg.

Preferably, the container according to the invention comprises Tapentadol in an amount within the range of from 1.00 mg to 3.00 mg, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base.

Preferably, the daily dose of Tapentadol is not more than 250 mg, more preferably not more than 225 mg, yet more preferably not more than 200 mg, still more preferably not more than 175 mg, and in particular not more than 150 mg.

Preferably, the daily dose of Tapentadol is at least 15 mg, more preferably at least 20 mg, yet more preferably at least 25 mg, still more preferably at least 30 mg, most preferably at least 35 mg, and in particular at least 40 mg.

The composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, has an excellent shelf life and storage stability. Thus, preferably, the composition according to the invention is stable upon storage.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention is stable upon storage under accelerated storage conditions at 40° C. and 75% relative humidity for at least 3 months, more preferably at least 6 months. Preferably, stability criteria are in accordance with Ph. Eur. and EMEA guidelines, respectively, preferably according to the edition that is valid in March 2015.

In preferred embodiments, the pH value of the composition after storage under accelerated storage conditions at 40° C. and 75% relative humidity for at least 3 months, more preferably at least 6 months, does not relatively differ by more than ±0.4 pH units, more preferably by not more than ±0.3 pH units, more preferably by not more than ±0.2 pH units, from the initial pH value of the composition prior to storage.

Preferably, the composition is colorless before storage and after storage under accelerated storage conditions at 40° C. and 75% relative humidity for at least 3 months, more preferably at least 6 months. Preferably, the composition is colorless before storage and during/after storage, in particular during/after a storage time of more than three months, preferably of more than 6 months, more preferably of more than 12 months, most preferably of at least for twenty-four months.

In preferred embodiments, the composition has a content of decomposition products of Tapentadol after storage under accelerated storage conditions at 40° C. and 75% relative humidity for at least 3 months, more preferably at least 6 months, of not more than 1.0 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.9 wt.-%, still more preferably not more than 0.8 wt.-%, yet more preferably not more than 0.7 wt.-%, even more preferably not more than 0.6 wt.-%, and most preferably not more than 0.5 wt.-%, relative to the total content of Tapentadol that was originally contained in the composition prior to storage and based on the weight of Tapentadol free base. Decomposition products of Tapentadol are preferably analyzed by HPLC.

For the purpose of the specification, it may additionally be distinguished between shelf life and in-use stability. Shelf life preferably refers to the storage stability of a closed container. In-use stability preferably refers to the storage container that contains a multiple dosage unit preparation which has been utilized for the first time. Typically, the shelf life of a multiple dosage unit preparation is much longer than its in-use stability. Preferably, stability criteria are in accordance with Ph. Eur. and EMEA guidelines, respectively, preferably according to the edition that is valid in March 2015.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, exhibits a shelf life under ambient conditions of at least 6 month, more preferably at least 12 months, still more preferably at least 15 months, yet more preferably at least 18 months, most preferably at least 21 months and in particular at least 24 months.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, is provided as a multiple dosage unit preparation that exhibits an in-use stability under ambient conditions of at least 1 week, more preferably at least 2 weeks, still more preferably at least 3 weeks, yet more preferably at least 4 weeks, most preferably at least 5 weeks and in particular at least 6 weeks.

It has been surprisingly found that even at comparatively low concentrations of Tapentadol pH value and content of molecular oxygen can be controlled such that undesired decomposition reactions of Tapentadol can be reduced. No additional excipients are needed for stabilization.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention exhibits an antimicrobial robustness that complies with the requirements of the Ph. Eur., preferably in its version for 2010. Preferably, antimicrobial robustness is achieved against S. aureus, Ps. Aeruginosa, S. spp., C. albicans, and/or A. niger, preferably satisfying the requirement of log reduction of 1, preferably 3 after 7 and no increase after 28 days. In a particularly preferred embodiment, antimicrobial robustness is achieved against bacteria satisfying the requirement of log reduction of 3 after 14 days and against molds and yeast of log reduction of 1 after 14 days.

The composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, exhibits an excellent autoclavability, i.e. it can be subjected to autoclaving under suitable conditions for a suitable period of time without causing significant degradation of Tapentadol under the typically drastic conditions of autoclaving. Preferably, the composition is stable upon autoclaving and preferably exhibits an unaltered pH value upon autoclaving.

Preferably, the composition is stable upon autoclaving for 20 minutes at 121° C. and 2 bar. Preferably, the composition is stable upon autoclaving for 20 minutes at 121° C. and 2 bar and preferably exhibits an unaltered pH value upon autoclaving under these conditions.

Preferably, stability criteria are in accordance with Ph. Eur. and EMEA guidelines, respectively, preferably according to the edition that is valid in March 2015.

In preferred embodiments, the composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, has a content of decomposition products of Tapentadol after autoclaving of not more than 0.05 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.04 wt.-%, and most preferably not more than 0.03 wt.-%, relative to the total content of Tapentadol that was originally contained in the composition prior to autoclaving and based on the weight of Tapentadol free base.

Preferably, the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is for use in the treatment of pain.

Accordingly, a further aspect of the invention relates to a method for the treatment of pain comprising the parenteral administration of a therapeutically effective amount of the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention as described above, that may be provided in the container according to the invention as described above, to a subject in need thereof.

Furthermore, the invention also relates to the use of Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof for the manufacture of the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention as described above or of the container containing the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention as described above, for the treatment of pain. Preferably, Tapentadol is employed as Tapentadol hydrochloride polymorph form A. Form A of Tapentadol hydrochloride is known from the prior art. In this regard, it can be referred to e.g. US 2007/0213405. Form A is preferably characterized by showing at least one or more X-ray lines (2-theta values) in a powder diffraction pattern when measured using Cu Kα radiation selected from the list comprising 15.1±0.2, 16.0±0.2, 18.9±0.2, 20.4±0.2, 22.5±0.2, 27.3±0.2, 29.3±0.2 and 30.4±0.2

The pain may either be chronic pain or acute pain. Acute pain is preferred.

Preferably, the pain is selected from the group consisting of inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, visceral pain, labor pain, cancer pain, perioperative and post-operative pain.

In a preferred embodiment, the pain is cancer pain, preferably neuropathic pain being induced by the cancer, including neuropathic pain as a direct result of the cancer on peripheral nerves, or as a side effect of chemotherapy, surgery or radiation injury.

In another preferred embodiment, the pain is perioperative or post-operative (post-surgical) pain.

In still another preferred embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is for use in emergency pain management.

Preferably, the composition according to the invention is for use in the treatment of pain in mammals. Preferably, the mammals are humans. Preferably, the humans are pediatric patients.

For the purpose of the specification, pediatric patients preferably encompass premature infants, newborn infants, infants, children up to the age of 2, children, and adolescents. Preferably, the upper age limit of the pediatric patients is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 or 17. Preferably, the lower body weight limit of the pediatric patients is 30 kg or 25 kg, more preferably 20 kg or 15 kg, still more preferably 10 kg or 7.5 kg, yet more preferably 5 kg or 3 kg, most preferably 2 kg or 1 kg, and in particular 500 g.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition is adapted for parenteral administration to children having a body weight of 10 to 15 kg, 16 to 20 kg, 21 to 25 kg, 26 to 30 kg, 31 to 35 kg, 36 to 40 kg and/or 41 to 45 kg. In another preferred embodiment, the composition is adapted for parenteral administration to infants or children having a body weight of below 0.5 kg, 0.6 kg to 0.9 kg, 1.0 kg to 1.9 kg, 2.0 kg to 2.9 kg, 3.0 kg to 3.9 kg, 4.0 kg to 4.9 kg, 5.0 kg to 5.9 kg, 6.0 kg to 8.0 kg and/or 8.1 kg to 9.9 kg.

In a preferred embodiment, the pediatric patients are newborn infants. Preferably, the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is for use in the treatment of acute pain in newborn infants.

In another preferred embodiment, the pediatric patients are premature infants. Preferably, the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention is for use in the treatment of acute pain in premature infants.

Preferably, composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, is a parenteral formulation selected from the group consisting of injection solutions, injection suspensions, infusion solutions, infusion suspensions, and depot formulations, such as depot injection solutions, depot injection suspensions, implants and infusion pumps.

Compared to oral formulations, parenteral formulations have several advantages, especially when the patient is young or has problems to swallow. They can be exactly dosed, e.g. according to the body weight of the patients, which can be particularly important in pediatric patients. Further, they can be administered by infusion continually over an extended period of time (e. g. 24 h), e. g. by means of an infusion pump.

In a preferred embodiment, the parenteral formulation according to the invention is an infusion solution or infusion suspension.

In another preferred embodiment, the parenteral formulation is an injection solution or injection suspension, which preferably is a single dosage unit form or multiple dosage unit form. Multiple dosage unit injection solutions are preferably contained in an injection vial, whereas single dosage unit forms are preferably contained in a single-use syringe.

In still another preferred embodiment, the parenteral formulation is an implantable device, such as an implantable infusion pump.

In a preferred embodiment, the parenteral formulation according to the invention is a depot formulation (retard formulation).

Preferably, the depot formulation is an infusion solution or infusion suspension, preferably customized for an intramuscular or subcutaneous administration.

Preferably, the depot formulation further contains viscosity-enhancing excipients, such as methylcellulose, gelatine, and polyvidon (polyvinylpyrrolidon) preferably having a molecular weight of not more than 40,000 g/mol. By choosing the appropriate type and the appropriate amount of the viscosity-enhancing excipient, the depot effect of the depot formulation may be influenced.

Preferably, the depot formulation is capable of releasing the drug over time period of at least 12 h or 14 h, more preferably at least 16 h or 18 h, still more preferably at least 20 h, yet more preferably at least 24 h, most preferably at least 36 h, and in particular at least 48 h.

The depot formulation is preferably administered for use in the treatment of acute pain and/or post-surgical pain.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, is adapted for local administration. In this regard, local administration includes every administration of the composition to a site which is identical to the site of disorder and/or at least is located nearby. In particular, the local administration has the purpose of delivering Tapentadol directly to the desired site of action, thereby avoiding systemic side-effects. Under these circumstances, the systemic concentration of Tapentadol is preferably kept at a sub-therapeutic concentration; i.e. during the treatment, the systemic concentration of Tapentadol never reaches the level that is required for exhibiting a therapeutic effect when the drug is only administered systemically.

In another preferred embodiment, the composition according to the invention, particularly when it is contained in the container according to the invention, is adapted for systemic administration. In this embodiment the administration of the composition preferably has the purpose of inducing a systemic action of Tapentadol.

The composition according to the invention is adapted for parenteral administration, preferably by injection or infusion.

The composition according to the invention is adapted for parenteral administration of Tapentadol. The parenteral administration may proceed by infusion or injection.

Infusion solutions or suspensions may be administered continuously, intermittently or patient-controlled. For the administration, infusion devices such as implantable infusion pumps, non-implantable infusion pumps and spinal pumps may be used.

The administration of the composition may proceed intramuscularly, intravenously, subcutaneously, epidurally, intrathecally, intraspinally and/or intracerebroventricularly. Intraveneous administration is particularly preferred.

In a preferred embodiment, the administration proceeds intraspinally, either intrathecally or epidurally, preferably by infusion. The intraspinal administration is especially suitable for treating pain selected from perioperative pain, post-operative pain, labor pain and cancer pain. The dosage of the intraspinal administration may be controlled by means of an infusion pump, either by the patient or by the selection of an appropriate steady or intermittent infusion rate.

In another preferred embodiment, the administration proceeds intramuscularly, intravenously or subcutaneously. This type of administration is especially preferred for the local or regional treatment of pain in distal extremities.

Depot formulations are preferably administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a process for the preparation of the pharmaceutical composition according to the invention or of the container according to the invention, respectively, which process comprises the step of

-   -   (a) preparing a mixture comprising Tapentadol or a         physiologically acceptable salt thereof, water and a buffer.

In a preferred embodiment, Tapentadol is employed as Tapentadol hydrochloride polymorph form A, which is preferably characterized by showing at least one or more X-ray lines (2-theta values) in a powder diffraction pattern when measured using Cu Kα radiation selected from the list comprising 15.1±0.2, 16.0±0.2, 18.9±0.2, 20.4±0.2, 22.5±0.2, 27.3±0.2, 29.3±0.2 and 30.4±0.2.

Preferably, in the course of manufacturing the composition according to the invention and the container according to the invention, respectively, the intermediate mixtures that are obtained after the process steps are purged with inert gas, preferably nitrogen, in order to discharge dissolved oxygen and to avoid entrainment of oxygen from the gas atmosphere above the composition.

Preferably, step (a) of the process according to the invention comprises a substep relating to the addition of every constituent to the composition, which substep comprises adding, dissolving/mixing and purging with inert gas, preferably nitrogen.

Thus, step (a) of the process according to the invention preferably comprises

-   -   the substep (a₁) of providing water for injections and purging         with inert gas;     -   the substep (a₂) of adding buffer, preferably sodium citrate         dihydrate, dissolving, and purging with inert gas;     -   the substep (a₃) of adding Tapentadol, preferably Tapentadol         hydrochloride, dissolving, and purging with inert gas;     -   the substep (a₄) of adding isotonizing agent, preferably sodium         chloride, dissolving, and purging with inert gas;     -   the substep (a₅) of adding acid, preferably hydrochloric acid,         mixing, and purging with inert gas; and     -   the substep (a₆) of adding further water for injections, mixing,         and purging with inert gas.

Substeps (a₁) to (a₆) may be performed in numerical order or in any other order.

Preferably, the process according to the invention comprises one or more additional steps selected from the group consisting of

-   (b) purging the mixture with an inert gas; and/or -   (c) filtering the mixture through a filter, preferably of an average     pore size of not more than 1.0 μm, more preferably not more than 0.5     μm, still more preferably not more than 0.2 μm; and/or -   (d) filling the mixture into a suitable container, preferably a     glass ampoule; and/or -   (e) autoclaving the mixture at elevated temperature and elevated     pressure, preferably at 121° C. and 2 bar for at least 20 minutes.

Preferably, steps (b), (c), (d) and/or (e) are performed in alphabetical order.

The invention also relates to a composition or a container that is obtainable by the process according to the invention as described above.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a kit comprising the container according to the invention as described above and a packaging, wherein the container is packaged by the packaging. The container may be regarded as a primary packaging of the composition, whereas the packaging may be regarded as a secondary packaging of said primary packaging.

Thus, when the composition according to the invention is contained in a container such as a glass ampoule, said container is preferably further packaged by a packaging. Preferably, the packaging contains printed information and/or provides a barrier to light.

Preferably, the packaging is made of a material that is intransparent to visual light.

Preferably, the packaging is disposable. Suitable packaging materials are known to the skilled person and include but are not limited to paper, cardboard, plastics, and metal foil. Preferably, the packaging comprises or essentially consists of cardboard.

Preferably, the composition which is contained in the container and packaged by the packaging is photostable.

In preferred embodiments, the content of decomposition products of Tapentadol in the composition after subjecting the kit for 24 hours to UV radiation at 540 Wh/m² and an illumination of 1320 kL×h is not more than 0.05 wt.-%, more preferably not more than 0.04 wt.-%, and most preferably not more than 0.03 wt.-%, relative to the total content of Tapentadol that was originally contained in the composition prior to subjecting the composition to UV radiation and based on the weight of Tapentadol free base.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition according to the invention as described above or of a container according to the invention as described above. Preferably, Tapentadol is employed as Tapentadol hydrochloride polymorph form A, which is preferably characterized by showing at least one or more X-ray lines (2-theta values) in a powder diffraction pattern when measured using Cu Kα radiation selected from the list comprising 15.1±0.2, 16.0±0.2, 18.9±0.2, 20.4±0.2, 22.5±0.2, 27.3±0.2, 29.3±0.2 and 30.4±0.2.

The following examples further illustrate the invention but are not to be construed as limiting its scope.

EXAMPLE 1 Preparation of Composition and Container

The following pharmaceutical composition (50 L) was prepared and subsequently filled into glass ampoules (2.00 mL):

amount per ampoule wt.-% Tapentadol HCl 2.33 mg equivalent weight relative to 2.00 mg 0.0997 Tapentadol free base sodium citrate dihydrate 0.64 mg 0.0319 sodium chloride 17.00 mg 0.8475 hydrochloric acid solution 1N ~2.18 mg q.s. sodium hydroxide solution 1N q.s. q.s. water ad 2.00 mL pH value 5.0 ± 0.5 total volume 2.00 mL total weight 2006 mg

Water for injection was weighed in a stainless steel container and purged with nitrogen. Sodium citrate dihydrate was weighed in a suitable container and subsequently added to the water for injection while purging. Tapentadol hydrochloride for parenteral use was weighed in a suitable container and subsequently added to the sodium citrate solution while purging with nitrogen. Sodium chloride was weighed in a suitable container and subsequently added to the solution while purging with nitrogen.

The pH value was measured and adjusted to 5.0 by using IN hydrochloric acid. If necessary, IN sodium hydroxide solution was added to readjust the pH to the target value. The remaining water was added to the solution while purging with nitrogen. The pH value was measured again.

The solution was filtered using a filter with 0.2 μm pores (Fluorodyne® KA3DFLP1, polyvinylidene fluoride, Pall). The filtered solution was filled (Fill and seal-machine AFV 6015, Bausch & Strobel) into cleaned (Washing machine AWU 8000, Bausch & Strobel) and sterilized (Sterilization tunnel DST 8000, Bausch & Strobel) type I clear glass ampoules while gassing with nitrogen. The ampoules were closed by a welding and cutting process (Fill and seal-machine AFV 6015, Bausch & Strobel).

The fill weight of the ampoules was measured and the ampoules were autoclaved at 121° C., 2 bar for 20 minutes (Belimed autoclave IV, Belimed). The ampoules were cleaned from the outside (Washing machine DAR150, Seidenader), visually controlled (EISAI AIM 287, Eisai) and subjected to a leak test at high voltage (Densok HDB II, Nikka-Densok).

The thus obtained compositions in the containers were stable upon autoclaving and had an excellent shelf life.

EXAMPLE 2 Storage Stability (pH, Color, Decomposition of Tapentadol)

A pharmaceutical composition according to the invention and a comparative composition were prepared in accordance with Example 1. The relevant information concerning the two compositions are summarized here below:

comparative inventive sodium citrate dihydrate 0.15 wt.-% 0.03 wt.-% (2.76 g in (7.36 g in 18.46 kg) 23.07 kg) pH range according to specification 6.0 to 7.5 4.5 to 5.5 content of molecular oxygen in headspace according to specification 5% Vbar   2% Vbar measured 0.7% Vbar

The storage stability was investigated. The results are summarized in the table here below:

Comparative Composition 1:

purity, Σ pH decomposition color of solution value products start — colorless 7.2 0.06% 1 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 7.1 0.20% 40° C./75% r.h. colorless 7.1 0.58% 3 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 7.5 0.38% 30° C./75% r.h. colorless 7.5 0.62% 40° C./75% r.h. Sample 1: BG7 7.7 1.51% Sample 2: <GG6, >GG7 6 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 7.5 0.51% 30° C./75% r.h. colorless 7.6 0.93% 40° C./75% r.h. GG4 7.6 2.88%

Inventive Composition 1:

purity, Σ pH decomposition color of solution value products start — colorless 5.2 n.d.  1 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 5.2 n.d. 40° C./75% r.h. colorless 5.2 n.d.  3 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 5.1 <0.05% 40° C./75% r.h. colorless 5.2 <0.05%  6 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 5.0 40° C./75% r.h. colorless 5.1  9 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 4.9 12 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 5.0 18 25° C./60% r.h. colorless 5.1

Regarding the color of the solution, the codes BG7, GG4, GG6 and GG7 refer to The Munsell Book of Color (Munsell Color Macbeth Division of Kollmorgan Instruments Corporation).

EXAMPLE 3 Storage Stability (Photostability)

The inventive composition according to Example 1 in 2 ml clear glass ampoules (glass type I) (primary packaging) was subjected to a photostability test according to ICH Q1B investigating color, clarity and degradation (Illumination at 250 W/m²). Irradiation was performed up to 24 h corresponding to 540 Wh/m2 and 1320 kL×h (ICH Q1B requirement: not less than 200 Wh/m2 and not less than 1200 kL×h). In parallel, the primary packaging was placed into a cardboard box as secondary packaging.

The experimental results are summarized in the table here below:

2 hours 4 hours 6 hours 8 hours UV: 45 UV: 90 UV: 135 UV: 180 24 hours Wh/m², Wh/m², Wh/m², Wh/m², 24 hours irradiation Illum: Illum: Illum: Illum: UV: 540 Wh/m², on window 0 hours 110 kL × h 220 kL × h 330 kL × h 440 kL × h Illum: 1320 kL × h sill packaging primary primary primary primary primary primary secondary primary color and clear — — — — clear — — clarity colorless colorless solution solution sum of n.d. n.d. 0.12 0.23 0.31 1.00 n.d. 0.25 degradation products n.d. = not detectable or below reporting threshold — test not performed

As demonstrated by the above data, color did not change over 24 hours. The degradation products increased. After 8 h irradiation the degradation products were still within specification but failed the limits after 24 hours. 24 h irradiation in the secondary packaging cardboard box, however, did not result in any changes compared to the initial testing.

In addition, Tapentadol 1 mg/mL solution for injection packaged in ampules was submitted over 4 days to a total of 24 h day light irradiation on a window sill in order to evaluate the comparability between artificial irradiation and normal daylight. The extent of degradation is similar to 6 h artificial irradiation (UV: 135 Wh/m², Illumination: 330 kL×h). The secondary packaging, however, provided sufficient light protection. 

1.-61. (canceled)
 62. An aqueous pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration comprising Tapentadol or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of from 0.10 to 8.00 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition; and wherein the pH value of the composition is buffered and within the range of from 4.0 to 6.0.
 63. The composition according to claim 62, which is stable upon autoclaving and preferably exhibits an unaltered pH value upon autoclaving.
 64. The composition according to claim 63, which is stable upon autoclaving for 20 minutes at 121° C. and 2 bar and preferably exhibits an unaltered pH value upon autoclaving under these conditions.
 65. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the content of molecular oxygen in the composition is not more than 9.0 mg/L, based on the total volume of the composition.
 66. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the content of molecular oxygen in the composition is not more than 0.2 mg/L, based on the total volume of the composition.
 67. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the pH value is within the range of from 4.5 to 5.5, in particular before and after autoclaving.
 68. The composition according to claim 62, which comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids selected from the group consisting of citrate, hydrogencitrate, dihydrogencitrate and citric acid.
 69. The composition according to claim 62, which comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of at least 0.5 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition.
 70. The composition according to claim 62, which comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration of not more than 1.5 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition.
 71. The composition according to claim 62, which comprises a buffer comprising one or more conjugate bases and one or more conjugate acids and having a concentration within the range of from 0.5 to 1.5 mmol/L, based on the total content of the one or more conjugate bases and the one or more conjugate acids and based on the total volume of the composition.
 72. The composition according to claim 62, wherein Tapentadol is present as Tapentadol hydrochloride.
 73. The composition according to claim 62, wherein the concentration of Tapentadol is within the range of 1.0±0.5 mg/mL, based on the weight of Tapentadol free base and based on the total volume of the composition.
 74. The composition according to claim 62, which comprises an isotonizing agent.
 75. The composition according to claim 74, wherein the isotonizing agent is sodium chloride.
 76. The composition according to claim 62, which has a titration acidity of not more than 1.8 mmol/L.
 77. The composition according to claim 62, which does not contain any antioxidant and/or chelating agent.
 78. The composition according to claim 62, which does not contain any preservative.
 79. A container comprising the pharmaceutical composition according to claim
 62. 80. The container according to claim 79, which is a glass ampoule.
 81. The container according to claim 79, which comprises from 1.0 to 3.0 mL of the composition.
 82. The container according to claim 79, which comprises the composition as a liquid phase and a gaseous phase in a headspace above the liquid phase, wherein the gaseous phase has a content of molecular oxygen of not more than 2.5% Vbar. 